1979 Mazda 121 vs. 1991 Saab 9000
To start off, 1991 Saab 9000 is newer by 12 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1979 Mazda 121. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1979 Mazda 121 would be higher. At 2,290 cc (4 cylinders), 1991 Saab 9000 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1991 Saab 9000 (200 HP @ 5000 RPM) has 110 more horse power than 1979 Mazda 121. (90 HP @ 4800 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1991 Saab 9000 should accelerate faster than 1979 Mazda 121. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1991 Saab 9000 weights approximately 330 kg more than 1979 Mazda 121. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1979 Mazda 121 is rear wheel drive (RWD), it offers better handling in dry conditions; in addition, if you are looking to drift, it will be much easier to do with 1979 Mazda 121. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1991 Saab 9000, being front wheel drive (FWD), will offer much better control with better grip. With that said, do keep in mind that many other factors such as speed and the wear on your tires can also have significant impact on traction and control. Let's talk about torque, 1991 Saab 9000 (323 Nm @ 2000 RPM) has 163 more torque (in Nm) than 1979 Mazda 121. (160 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 1991 Saab 9000 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1979 Mazda 121.
Compare all specifications:
| 1979 Mazda 121 | 1991 Saab 9000 | |
| Make | Mazda | Saab |
| Model | 121 | 9000 |
| Year Released | 1979 | 1991 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1970 cc | 2290 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 90 HP | 200 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4800 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Torque | 160 Nm | 323 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 2000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 80 mm | 90 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 98 mm | 90 mm |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1134 kg | 1464 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4510 mm | 4770 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1690 mm | 1780 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1350 mm | 1420 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2520 mm | 2670 mm |
